The Power of Awe: Unlocking Resilience and Purpose in Life and Leadership
How micro-moments of wonder boost resilience, creativity, and connection—at home and at work.
In our fast-paced, often overwhelming lives, it’s easy to feel like we’re carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders. The constant demands of work, family, and health can narrow our focus, leaving us feeling drained and disconnected. But what if there was a force that could shift our mindset, expand our perspective, and re-energize us?
🌟 The Wellness Shift—from Stress to Awe
I was recently inspired by a post by my esteemed colleague, Dr. Renee Moorefield, PhD, a true force in wellness leadership. She shared how moments of awe—whether through nature, meaningful work, or small, joyful experiences—have the power to expand us. Just as I finished reading her post, a hummingbird flew right up close to me, reminding me of the magic of awe in nature. Later that morning, I spotted a huge monarch butterfly in my garden for the first time this season—two unexpected and breathtaking moments that felt like nature’s reminder to pause and appreciate the beauty around me.
In a time when we’re often caught up in the hustle and grind, awe has the remarkable ability to not only soothe but to elevate us, both mentally and physically. As someone deeply committed to wellness and a Functional Medicine approach, I saw how this simple concept of awe connects with the principles I live by. From improving our mental health to enhancing our leadership and emotional intelligence, awe is a powerful tool that we can use to boost our resilience, spark creativity, and reignite a sense of purpose.
🧠 Awe: A Transformative Wellness Strategy
Awe has the unique ability to expand our mindset and shift our focus from ourselves to something larger than life’s daily stressors. It reminds us that we are part of something much greater. This shift—from self-focus to connection with the larger universe—can be incredibly powerful for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
When we embrace awe, it’s like taking a deep breath for the soul. This isn’t just an emotional experience—it’s actually linked to measurable health benefits:
🧘♀️ Psychologically: Awe is scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and increase feelings of well-being. In the same way that functional medicine targets root causes of disease, awe helps us address the root of mental stress, promoting calm and a balanced mind.
⚡ Energetically: When we experience awe, we tap into a renewed sense of vitality. This shift in energy fuels our creativity and sparks inspiration, making us more motivated and energized in our daily lives.
🤝 Leadership and Emotional Intelligence: Awe also has profound effects on leadership. Leaders who tap into awe are not just strategic—they lead from a place of emotional intelligence, inclusivity, and vision. They inspire, connect, and serve in ways that can elevate the entire team.
🌿 Awe as a Wellness Tool for Us All
As individuals, we all have the ability to embrace moments of awe, whether through mindfulness, creative pursuits, or simply reconnecting with the beauty and wonder of life. Awe not only nurtures our well-being but also empowers us to live with greater purpose and connection, enriching both our personal and professional lives.
Whether it’s a shared experience of awe in nature, a powerful moment of creative expression, or simply coming together as a team to accomplish something meaningful, awe fosters connection and resilience. This shift not only enhances well-being but strengthens the social fabric of workplaces and communities.
✅ Practical Ways to Invite Awe into Your Life
If you’re looking to harness the power of awe in your own life, here are a few simple ways to invite it into your daily routine:
🦋 Nature pause: Step outside, look up, and notice one detail you’d normally miss—a color, a pattern, a sound. Whether it’s a mountain view, the ocean, or simply walking through the woods, spending time outdoors can create incredible moments of wonder.
- 🎶 Music moment: Play a piece that moves you; breathe slowly for 60–90 seconds while you listen.
🎨 Creative spark: Doodle, snap a photo of light and shadow, arrange a simple still life, or cook with extra care—notice color, texture, aroma. Perfection not required.
🙏 Mindfulness + gratitude: Name one “wow” moment from today—a beautiful view, a child's smile, a breathtaking sunset, a shared moment of laughter, or even a small act of kindness can spark a sense of awe. Extra points if you write them down!
🤝 Shared wonder: Ask someone, “What left you in awe recently?” Listen for one minute without interrupting.
💻 Digital awe: Visit an online museum gallery or watch an inspiring TED Talk or time-lapse photograhy video; notice how your body feels afterward.
💫 A Path to Resilience and Purpose
Awe is more than a fleeting emotion—it’s a key wellness strategy that can help us thrive both personally and professionally. It cultivates resilience, encourages expansive thinking, and allows us to connect with a deeper sense of purpose. By embracing awe, we unlock new potential within ourselves and others.
Whether through mindfulness, creative pursuits, or reconnecting with the beauty of the world, awe offers us all the chance to lead with heart and purpose... and it's free.
💬 Your Turn (Let’s Engage)
I’d love to hear your moments of awe—big or small. If you’re reading this on LinkedIn, share in the comments so we can inspire each other. Prefer private? Send me a quick note; I read them all.
As we journey through life, we can make awe a powerful practice. It’s a tool that helps us manage stress, tap into creativity, and connect with our higher purpose. In a world that often feels chaotic, awe provides a simple, yet profound way to bring balance, joy, and meaning back into our lives.
What gives you a sense of awe these days? Let’s make space for these moments and embrace the expansive power they bring to our wellness...
It is truly being cool to your future self!
Wishing you wellness 🌺
Gloria
Gloria Treister, HHP
Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner
Advanced Physical Fitness Specialist
EMCC Certified Executive & Business Coach
AUTHOR: "Wellness 101: Simple Steps to Good Health"
📍 Click here to shop supplements, clean, effective personal care products, and even healthy snacks on Fullscript. Create your free account. My clients enjoy a permanent 15% discount on everything!